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Elemental Origins #4
Born of Aether (Elemental Origins, #4)
They say if you tell a lie long enough, you'll eventually believe it, but Akiko will never forget who she really is.
Akiko Susumu is not what she seems. Her life as a normal teen living in a coastal Canadian town is a complete sham. The old man she lives with is not her grandfather, he's her captor. And Akiko isn't a teen. In fact, she isn't even human.
But Akiko isn't allowed to share the reality of her true nature with a single soul. Not even her three best friends know of the power she could wield, given the chance.
So, when she's sent back to her homeland to steal an ancient samurai sword, she jumps at the chance to secure her freedom, only to get caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the most dangerous crime syndicate in Japan.
Can Akiko escape with her life and her soul, or is true freedom as elusive as the Aether she was born from?
Akiko Susumu is not what she seems. Her life as a normal teen living in a coastal Canadian town is a complete sham. The old man she lives with is not her grandfather, he's her captor. And Akiko isn't a teen. In fact, she isn't even human.
But Akiko isn't allowed to share the reality of her true nature with a single soul. Not even her three best friends know of the power she could wield, given the chance.
So, when she's sent back to her homeland to steal an ancient samurai sword, she jumps at the chance to secure her freedom, only to get caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the most dangerous crime syndicate in Japan.
Can Akiko escape with her life and her soul, or is true freedom as elusive as the Aether she was born from?
242 pages, Paperback
Published October 25, 2023
898 people are currently reading
1233 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Knorr
62 books694 followersA.L. Knorr is a USA Today Bestselling Author and award-winning Canadian conjurer of clean fantasy for teens and the young at heart. Her stories blend elemental magic, epic adventure, fierce female leads, and just enough romance to make your heart flutter (without needing to hide the book from your grandma).
Whether you’re chasing fire demons through Venice, swimming with mermaids off the coast of Poland, or unraveling supernatural conspiracies in ancient ruins, her immersive worlds pull you in—and don’t let go.
No explicit content. No f-bombs. Just page-turning plots, vivid magic, and characters you'll wish were real.
And if you like your fantasy with a little more grit, danger, and fallen angels? Check out Shadows of the Fallen—where secrets are deadly, powers come at a price, and trust is the rarest magic of all.
Join her VIP Reader List for secret book news, and first dibs on every new release:
www(dot)alknorrbooks(dot)com
Find her on IG @alknorrbooks
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01NBAUVKO
Facebook:
https//www.facebook.com/alknorrbooks
Whether you’re chasing fire demons through Venice, swimming with mermaids off the coast of Poland, or unraveling supernatural conspiracies in ancient ruins, her immersive worlds pull you in—and don’t let go.
No explicit content. No f-bombs. Just page-turning plots, vivid magic, and characters you'll wish were real.
And if you like your fantasy with a little more grit, danger, and fallen angels? Check out Shadows of the Fallen—where secrets are deadly, powers come at a price, and trust is the rarest magic of all.
Join her VIP Reader List for secret book news, and first dibs on every new release:
www(dot)alknorrbooks(dot)com
Find her on IG @alknorrbooks
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01NBAUVKO
Facebook:
https//www.facebook.com/alknorrbooks
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
October 2, 2017
Unexpected
This book was the best one yet. I don't know what I expected for Akiko's story it wasn't this amazing. I'm totally blown away. Truly superb writing.
This book was the best one yet. I don't know what I expected for Akiko's story it wasn't this amazing. I'm totally blown away. Truly superb writing.
May 13, 2024
2024 Reads #289/250
December 5, 2022
Ersilia F. - per RFS
.
Con il quarto volume della serie Le figlie degli elementi entriamo nel mondo delle leggende giapponesi e dei samurai. Un universo fatto di creature magiche, vecchie spade e antichi conflitti legati alla Yakuza.
Akiko, la protagonista di La figlia del cielo, ha capacità magiche: può trasformarsi in qualunque tipo di volatile ma purtroppo non può rivelare questa capacità alle sue migliori amiche.
Da decenni Akiko vive rinchiusa in una gabbia perchè il suo tamashī le è stato rubato e le Kitsune come lei – esseri soprannaturali che riescono a trasformarsi in animali – senza di esso sono costrette a obbedire a chi lo possiede.
La ragazza vive con il nonno che le nasconde un segreto e che un giorno le chiede di recarsi in Giappone per rubare una spada da un museo che le consentirà di riavere la sua libertà.
Qui Akiko scoprirà tante cose sulla sua vita passata, affronterà un vecchio e potente guerriero e conoscerà finalmente la verità su sua sorella e sul suo amato persi tanto tempo fa.
Figlia del cielo si svolge in due linee temporali: passato e presente ed è la stessa Akiko che ci racconta la sua storia. Con un linguaggio semplice veniamo a conoscenza del suo legame con la sorella e del loro modo di vivere i loro poteri. Ci sono alcune parti raccontate un po’ frettolosamente e con superficialità, dando poche informazioni su alcuni avvenimenti, ma la lettura resta nel complesso fluida e godibile.
Questa protagonista è più matura rispetto a quelle dei libri passati, ha un carattere più delineato e un passato ben descritto.
Ho apprezzato molto questo volume, sia per le leggende che per la storia sui samurai. La parte relativa al passato è molto più avvincente e ricca di dettagli rispetto a quella ambientata nel presente.
Un romanzo ricco di mistero, di puro intrattenimento che rimane un tantino superficiale nelle sue vicende, ma è uno YA che parla di crescita, di realizzazione di sé e del coraggio nell’affrontare le avversità.
.
Con il quarto volume della serie Le figlie degli elementi entriamo nel mondo delle leggende giapponesi e dei samurai. Un universo fatto di creature magiche, vecchie spade e antichi conflitti legati alla Yakuza.
Akiko, la protagonista di La figlia del cielo, ha capacità magiche: può trasformarsi in qualunque tipo di volatile ma purtroppo non può rivelare questa capacità alle sue migliori amiche.
Da decenni Akiko vive rinchiusa in una gabbia perchè il suo tamashī le è stato rubato e le Kitsune come lei – esseri soprannaturali che riescono a trasformarsi in animali – senza di esso sono costrette a obbedire a chi lo possiede.
La ragazza vive con il nonno che le nasconde un segreto e che un giorno le chiede di recarsi in Giappone per rubare una spada da un museo che le consentirà di riavere la sua libertà.
Qui Akiko scoprirà tante cose sulla sua vita passata, affronterà un vecchio e potente guerriero e conoscerà finalmente la verità su sua sorella e sul suo amato persi tanto tempo fa.
Figlia del cielo si svolge in due linee temporali: passato e presente ed è la stessa Akiko che ci racconta la sua storia. Con un linguaggio semplice veniamo a conoscenza del suo legame con la sorella e del loro modo di vivere i loro poteri. Ci sono alcune parti raccontate un po’ frettolosamente e con superficialità, dando poche informazioni su alcuni avvenimenti, ma la lettura resta nel complesso fluida e godibile.
Questa protagonista è più matura rispetto a quelle dei libri passati, ha un carattere più delineato e un passato ben descritto.
Ho apprezzato molto questo volume, sia per le leggende che per la storia sui samurai. La parte relativa al passato è molto più avvincente e ricca di dettagli rispetto a quella ambientata nel presente.
Un romanzo ricco di mistero, di puro intrattenimento che rimane un tantino superficiale nelle sue vicende, ma è uno YA che parla di crescita, di realizzazione di sé e del coraggio nell’affrontare le avversità.
February 11, 2022
One of my biggest pet peeves is not using correct words in the language you are trying to use.
Batya is not a Japanese name. I don't even know. It's just made up.
Akuna Hanta makes me want to scream. Akuna should be Akuma, the ACTUAL word for demon. And Hanta? That's just the romanized version of HUNTER.
Those are the ones that immediately come to mind.
Other than that, this is, so far, the weakest book in the series. I have one to go.
Batya is not a Japanese name. I don't even know. It's just made up.
Akuna Hanta makes me want to scream. Akuna should be Akuma, the ACTUAL word for demon. And Hanta? That's just the romanized version of HUNTER.
Those are the ones that immediately come to mind.
Other than that, this is, so far, the weakest book in the series. I have one to go.
February 22, 2021
Einmal am Stück durchgelesen.
Ich finde das Buch allgemein gut. Die Geschichte geht gut weiter und ich freue mich auf jeden Fall auf den Nächsten Teil.
Ein großer Aspekt, der mir fehlte war, dass die Geschichte sehr kurz war. Ich hätte mir mehr gewünscht. Bei den drei Büchern davor ging es mehr in die Tiefe.
Aber die Reihe zu lesen, würde ich auf jeden Fall empfehlen.
Ich finde das Buch allgemein gut. Die Geschichte geht gut weiter und ich freue mich auf jeden Fall auf den Nächsten Teil.
Ein großer Aspekt, der mir fehlte war, dass die Geschichte sehr kurz war. Ich hätte mir mehr gewünscht. Bei den drei Büchern davor ging es mehr in die Tiefe.
Aber die Reihe zu lesen, würde ich auf jeden Fall empfehlen.
January 7, 2018
Oh Toshi!
Loved it! I read the first 3 books in this series (out of order but it didn't matter because they all happened at the same time) and really liked them. The stories are very interesting and entertaining. Akiko's story was awesome, I loved all the characters. Totally fell in love with Toshi and also with Yuudai even if I knew he wouldn't be for Akiko. I was a bit sad about how the story ended, super sad about Daichi even if he was a villain (kinda). I will continue the series because I'm definitely interested in seeing where the girls go after knowing what they can do and since they are all different it will be interesting I'm sure.
Definitely recommend!
Loved it! I read the first 3 books in this series (out of order but it didn't matter because they all happened at the same time) and really liked them. The stories are very interesting and entertaining. Akiko's story was awesome, I loved all the characters. Totally fell in love with Toshi and also with Yuudai even if I knew he wouldn't be for Akiko. I was a bit sad about how the story ended, super sad about Daichi even if he was a villain (kinda). I will continue the series because I'm definitely interested in seeing where the girls go after knowing what they can do and since they are all different it will be interesting I'm sure.
Definitely recommend!
April 2, 2023
3.5 💫 I was a bit disappointed by Akiko's story... I loved the previous books and was hyped for her storyline because I was really interested in how the author will use her Japanese heritage but as already mentioned, got disappointed instead. I am a huge Japan fan and what seriously bugged me to no extent was the word 'Akuna hanta' - like seriously! The Japanese word for demon is Akuma...why did the author not use the right terminology. Same with hanta🤦♀️ that is just the way the Japanese pronounce the English word 'hunter'. They could have used the Japanese terminology as well.
March 2, 2024
Akiko's story is my favourite out of all elementals. I felt like it had most depth to it or maybe it just talked to me more than others. The last culmination chapters of it have gotten me pretty emotional which is not very easy to do, for which I added a whole one more star. 🌟
March 25, 2024
Ein sehr gutes Buch.
April 24, 2019
If I’m being honest I found this one the most interesting so far. I loved reading about Akiko and finding out what her story was. The Aether is something I haven’t come across many times in fantasy books but it is just so cool. I would love to be a shapeshifter and I’ve never heard of a ‘hanta’ but again the premise sounded really intriguing.
Akiko definitely had the most mystery around her as I was reading through these books. We don’t really learn anything about her until this one. I’m still a little gob smacked that she was being held prisoner.
I also love the guy she comes across who helps her learn what a hanta is and what they do. I keep calling him yoshi even though I know that isn’t right so I apologise🤦🏻♀️.
I’m really looking forward to when she tells the other girls who she is.
Akiko definitely had the most mystery around her as I was reading through these books. We don’t really learn anything about her until this one. I’m still a little gob smacked that she was being held prisoner.
I also love the guy she comes across who helps her learn what a hanta is and what they do. I keep calling him yoshi even though I know that isn’t right so I apologise🤦🏻♀️.
I’m really looking forward to when she tells the other girls who she is.
June 2, 2022
I wish that I’d enjoyed this more than I did. The plot line and lore is original and I enjoyed the characters - but honestly it felt like nothing happened for 60% of the book. The best way I can describe it is that this feels like a rushed origin story. Detailed enough to be interesting but not enough to be notable
January 6, 2023
Painfully sluggish but...extra star for originality.
This book was well on its way to being the first book of this series to rate less than 3-stars (was aiming for two) due to how overloaded it was on the expositional side, but... given how unique the features of this story were, (particularly of the legend/myth variety), I thought it fair to give it an extra star. It was pretty a damn creative story in its own right, maybe even a little fascinating, and I can't ignore that fact just because the manner of its telling wasn't too my liking. It was a drag, sure, but it was also kind of a sophisticated one. In the end, this book was decent enough to hold my interest in the series.
It was a blessed relief to finally get to know Akiko, since her character has been a mystery since the start of this series. Her foundation is established via past and present narrations, which is a bit jarring, but nothing bad. I'm glad I didn't read the premise first, as it would have spoiled what was quite the surprise reveal about Akiko. She is a bit of a bland character but given the unique circumstances of her life story, I can understand and accept it. The Aether feature was intriguing, which it kinda of HAD to be, since Aether is not an actual element. But the myth surrounding the Aether was VERY cool.
Of course, like I said before, this story, despite the interesting features, was definitely a chore to read. The biggest blame for this was the sheer lack of dialogue and/or character interactions. There was a lot to unpack, and without the added support of secondary characters, it felt longwinded, maybe even a bit boring at times. I do get WHY it was like this, truly I do. Akiko is on her own the majority of this story because she has to be, thanks to her assigned mission. There's not much room for anyone else, and (combined with Akiko's yawn-worthy personality), this made things more somber, exhausting, and dull.
I'm still in the game, though, despite my mixed feelings on this entry. I'm curious about the final element of Air, and how the girls will all eventually learn of each other and their powers. So...onward!
This book was well on its way to being the first book of this series to rate less than 3-stars (was aiming for two) due to how overloaded it was on the expositional side, but... given how unique the features of this story were, (particularly of the legend/myth variety), I thought it fair to give it an extra star. It was pretty a damn creative story in its own right, maybe even a little fascinating, and I can't ignore that fact just because the manner of its telling wasn't too my liking. It was a drag, sure, but it was also kind of a sophisticated one. In the end, this book was decent enough to hold my interest in the series.
It was a blessed relief to finally get to know Akiko, since her character has been a mystery since the start of this series. Her foundation is established via past and present narrations, which is a bit jarring, but nothing bad. I'm glad I didn't read the premise first, as it would have spoiled what was quite the surprise reveal about Akiko. She is a bit of a bland character but given the unique circumstances of her life story, I can understand and accept it. The Aether feature was intriguing, which it kinda of HAD to be, since Aether is not an actual element. But the myth surrounding the Aether was VERY cool.
Of course, like I said before, this story, despite the interesting features, was definitely a chore to read. The biggest blame for this was the sheer lack of dialogue and/or character interactions. There was a lot to unpack, and without the added support of secondary characters, it felt longwinded, maybe even a bit boring at times. I do get WHY it was like this, truly I do. Akiko is on her own the majority of this story because she has to be, thanks to her assigned mission. There's not much room for anyone else, and (combined with Akiko's yawn-worthy personality), this made things more somber, exhausting, and dull.
I'm still in the game, though, despite my mixed feelings on this entry. I'm curious about the final element of Air, and how the girls will all eventually learn of each other and their powers. So...onward!
May 4, 2018
Catch it in full at ♀ Bookworm
To be honest, when everything is going smoothly well, I tend to think that the next volume will disappoint me, so I went in deep low expectations with this one, and at the end, I thought I was being dramatic. This world is, thus far, well built to withstand plot. The fact that these books are happening at the same time, helps, I guess. And, indeed this series can be read as a standalone. It really doesn’t matter if you begin this series with Water, Aether, Fire or Earth…
Akiko is a very powerful type of shapeshifter, and operates mainly in the Aether, but, something quite traumatic happened, and she’s lost her ultimate weapon and power to an old man… and for years and years, Akiko has lived captive, and in a complete mess over her sister’s betrayal. Akiko is not allowed to share more than she’s had, and her silent behavior makes sense when reading this book. While all her very unaware BFF’s are getting ready to travel across the globe to find themselves and their power, Akiko is offered to cross the globe in order to obtain her freedom… She will reunite herself with her “talisman” (honestly, I forgot the name of that thing), and meet the ghosts of her old life — some are actually dead, by the way. Super spoiler-y, I know… but in between all that she’ll finally grow into herself, her duty, and meet someone like herself (yay!, but of which I have no idea what’s called anymore. I am terrible with names… but she’s a bird hunting demon, that’s all I am saying).
To be honest, when everything is going smoothly well, I tend to think that the next volume will disappoint me, so I went in deep low expectations with this one, and at the end, I thought I was being dramatic. This world is, thus far, well built to withstand plot. The fact that these books are happening at the same time, helps, I guess. And, indeed this series can be read as a standalone. It really doesn’t matter if you begin this series with Water, Aether, Fire or Earth…
Akiko is a very powerful type of shapeshifter, and operates mainly in the Aether, but, something quite traumatic happened, and she’s lost her ultimate weapon and power to an old man… and for years and years, Akiko has lived captive, and in a complete mess over her sister’s betrayal. Akiko is not allowed to share more than she’s had, and her silent behavior makes sense when reading this book. While all her very unaware BFF’s are getting ready to travel across the globe to find themselves and their power, Akiko is offered to cross the globe in order to obtain her freedom… She will reunite herself with her “talisman” (honestly, I forgot the name of that thing), and meet the ghosts of her old life — some are actually dead, by the way. Super spoiler-y, I know… but in between all that she’ll finally grow into herself, her duty, and meet someone like herself (yay!, but of which I have no idea what’s called anymore. I am terrible with names… but she’s a bird hunting demon, that’s all I am saying).
August 23, 2023
This is the fourth book in the elemental origins series and features Akiko, one of four close friends living in a small, coastal Canadian town.
Akiko, like her friends, is 17 years old and about to enter Grade 12. But that's where the similarities end!
Although everyone thinks she's living with her grandfather, he's actually her captor. Not only that, but Akiko isn't even human. Nobody knows who she truly is and the immense power she can wield since she's forbidden to utter a word about it.
When her grandfather sends her to Japan, supposedly to visit family, but really to steal a Samuri sword, Akiko learns the full extent of her powers, as well as the truth about her family.
Much of the book is told through flashbacks, which I personally liked a lot.
As she attempts to complete her grandfather's mission she finds herself involved in a Japanese crime syndicate and is soon fighting for her life and freedom.
I enjoyed the book very much and was rooting for Akiko (and her new friend) the whole way through. I liked reading about her family and her origin story, and was happy that there was some resolution there.
I'm going to give this series a bit of a break now, but I'll definitely be finishing the next two books before too long.
Akiko, like her friends, is 17 years old and about to enter Grade 12. But that's where the similarities end!
Although everyone thinks she's living with her grandfather, he's actually her captor. Not only that, but Akiko isn't even human. Nobody knows who she truly is and the immense power she can wield since she's forbidden to utter a word about it.
When her grandfather sends her to Japan, supposedly to visit family, but really to steal a Samuri sword, Akiko learns the full extent of her powers, as well as the truth about her family.
Much of the book is told through flashbacks, which I personally liked a lot.
As she attempts to complete her grandfather's mission she finds herself involved in a Japanese crime syndicate and is soon fighting for her life and freedom.
I enjoyed the book very much and was rooting for Akiko (and her new friend) the whole way through. I liked reading about her family and her origin story, and was happy that there was some resolution there.
I'm going to give this series a bit of a break now, but I'll definitely be finishing the next two books before too long.
August 5, 2020
An interesting addition
This is the fourth elemental origins book by A.L. Knorr that I have read. I'm not prone to giving any spoilers away and shan't start now. This was not my favourite elemental origins book. All of the stories so far, whilst being connected all have their own unique character. This book was no exception but it was a little more difficult to get hooked to than the others in the series. So much so, that I needed to take a step back and leave it for a couple of months before resuming with fresh eyes. Once the present day story started to flow then it became easier, and more exciting to the point where I finished it afterwards in just a couple of sittings and still awarded 4 stars. The end of the story was great and the final connection to the previous books was cleanly performed. I wonder if I had read this story first in the series if my opinion would have been different, who knows? If you've read born of water previously you may struggle to book onto this one, as I did, but please persevere as it will be worth it in the end.
This is the fourth elemental origins book by A.L. Knorr that I have read. I'm not prone to giving any spoilers away and shan't start now. This was not my favourite elemental origins book. All of the stories so far, whilst being connected all have their own unique character. This book was no exception but it was a little more difficult to get hooked to than the others in the series. So much so, that I needed to take a step back and leave it for a couple of months before resuming with fresh eyes. Once the present day story started to flow then it became easier, and more exciting to the point where I finished it afterwards in just a couple of sittings and still awarded 4 stars. The end of the story was great and the final connection to the previous books was cleanly performed. I wonder if I had read this story first in the series if my opinion would have been different, who knows? If you've read born of water previously you may struggle to book onto this one, as I did, but please persevere as it will be worth it in the end.
April 8, 2020
Intriguing
This is the fourth book in the elemental series. This book follows the summer of akiko. She lives a double life that her friends are unaware of. She is a supernatural being of the aether. This is the spiritual plane that is on another spectrum to the earth. Akiko has the ability to turn into a bird and roam the skies above. She is sent on a mission by her grandfather back to her home town so that she can have her independence. But can she forefill her grandfather's wishes. She meets a range of different people on her travels and she experiences a life she wishes she could have.
My favourite character is aimi what she did was truly an act of love
My least favourite character is akikos grandfather for doing what he did even though there is a slight soft spot for him in the end.
I would definately recommend this book and I llok forward to reading the next installment
This is the fourth book in the elemental series. This book follows the summer of akiko. She lives a double life that her friends are unaware of. She is a supernatural being of the aether. This is the spiritual plane that is on another spectrum to the earth. Akiko has the ability to turn into a bird and roam the skies above. She is sent on a mission by her grandfather back to her home town so that she can have her independence. But can she forefill her grandfather's wishes. She meets a range of different people on her travels and she experiences a life she wishes she could have.
My favourite character is aimi what she did was truly an act of love
My least favourite character is akikos grandfather for doing what he did even though there is a slight soft spot for him in the end.
I would definately recommend this book and I llok forward to reading the next installment
July 29, 2018
This really has been a fantastic series and I've totally adored each of its prior books. As a result, I was really looking forward to this book and expecting a fun read. I did not get what I expected - I got much more. Quite simply, this book is superb. The way that AL Knorr brings in Japanese mythology and samurai culture in the form of the "born of Æther" demon hunting Akuna Hanta is hugely original and wonderfully entertaining. Akiku Susumu, the heroine of this particular tale, is a truly compelling character and it's really neat following along as she starts developing her powers as she faces everything thrown at her. Add in a kick-a** plot, a great cast of supporting characters and excellent writing and you'll understand why I felt obligated to rate this book five stars (which I generally avoid doing) and am happy to highly recommend it.
October 16, 2019
Japanese Mythology meets Demon Huntress
I honestly believe none is so successful at weaving a complex story quite like this author. I was so anxious to listen to everything and was hoping no one would interrupt the magic I was thrown into.
I had not heard of Aether in a long time and never so beautifully explained either. In a group of 4 girls the one who was the most quiet and drawn is actually surrounded with mystery.
No wonder she ends up this mystical wonder that is a demon hunter of old. Her grandfather is in all actuality her captor which was a horrifying fact to get over.
So exciting and emotional, you cheer her on to endure for her freedom and swoon over the newly discovered hunter. Tears welled up when she found out what has happened to her loved ones with her kidnapping, and then whoops as she is finally free to do what she was destined to.
I honestly believe none is so successful at weaving a complex story quite like this author. I was so anxious to listen to everything and was hoping no one would interrupt the magic I was thrown into.
I had not heard of Aether in a long time and never so beautifully explained either. In a group of 4 girls the one who was the most quiet and drawn is actually surrounded with mystery.
No wonder she ends up this mystical wonder that is a demon hunter of old. Her grandfather is in all actuality her captor which was a horrifying fact to get over.
So exciting and emotional, you cheer her on to endure for her freedom and swoon over the newly discovered hunter. Tears welled up when she found out what has happened to her loved ones with her kidnapping, and then whoops as she is finally free to do what she was destined to.
February 24, 2018
Ms. Knorrs talent and imagination know no bounds
Ms. Knorr's talent for writing truly comes to light in this fantasy story. It's a little different from the other Elemental Origins books in that Akiko is not really a teenager and her grandfather is really not related to her. But she has had to live this life in the hope of one day gaining her freedom and overcoming all the lies she has had to tell. I was astounded by the characters Ms. Knorr developed in this book both evil and good. Also her descriptions of the world around Akiko were so vivid I had no problem imagining then in my own mind. What a great talent and what a wonderful series. I have no problem recommending this book and this series to anyone who loves fantasy.
Ms. Knorr's talent for writing truly comes to light in this fantasy story. It's a little different from the other Elemental Origins books in that Akiko is not really a teenager and her grandfather is really not related to her. But she has had to live this life in the hope of one day gaining her freedom and overcoming all the lies she has had to tell. I was astounded by the characters Ms. Knorr developed in this book both evil and good. Also her descriptions of the world around Akiko were so vivid I had no problem imagining then in my own mind. What a great talent and what a wonderful series. I have no problem recommending this book and this series to anyone who loves fantasy.
December 27, 2021
My spirit is soaring
This is the 4th book by Abby Knorr I have read and she is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. This Elementals series is beyond imaginative and entertaining and of the hundreds of books I have read it is up there in pleasant surprise with the storyline, friendships, self discovery and seeing places never visited so vividly in your minds eye. Each book so far gives the reader a subtle reminder of environmental changes and how the characters try to figure out how to use their abilities for good. I can't wait for them all to come together and discover they each have an elemental ability. I will be reading all of Knorr's books and I know I will enjoy every minute of it!
This is the 4th book by Abby Knorr I have read and she is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. This Elementals series is beyond imaginative and entertaining and of the hundreds of books I have read it is up there in pleasant surprise with the storyline, friendships, self discovery and seeing places never visited so vividly in your minds eye. Each book so far gives the reader a subtle reminder of environmental changes and how the characters try to figure out how to use their abilities for good. I can't wait for them all to come together and discover they each have an elemental ability. I will be reading all of Knorr's books and I know I will enjoy every minute of it!
August 1, 2017
Beautifully done!
I am really enjoying this series. This was the second of the four books that I have read so far and I love how to author is dedicating her time so that readers can learn who each of our heroines are. Akiko's story was filled with suspense, action, fantasy, history, and a touch of romance. Like with the first book, you really feel for these characters (including the supporting characters) and root them on throughout the story. I also appreciated the detail spent on explaining Japanese folklore, traditions, cultures, and history. Going to read the other two and I can't wait for the series to continue!
I am really enjoying this series. This was the second of the four books that I have read so far and I love how to author is dedicating her time so that readers can learn who each of our heroines are. Akiko's story was filled with suspense, action, fantasy, history, and a touch of romance. Like with the first book, you really feel for these characters (including the supporting characters) and root them on throughout the story. I also appreciated the detail spent on explaining Japanese folklore, traditions, cultures, and history. Going to read the other two and I can't wait for the series to continue!
October 31, 2017
Good but not my favorite
I think this is the weakest in the series but is a book I found worth reading and would probably read it again. I'm not sure entirely why I didn't like it but it could be my own lack of knowledge about this mythology.
SPOILER - STOP HERE IF YOU DON'T WANT A PLOT POINT
I didn't like the battle at the end and I felt like she was the only elemental that was so rescued. The other three I read (Water, Earth, Fire - listed in order of my ranking FYI) had the heroine control her own destiny a bit more. All got help and direction but did a lot of their own stunts, so to speak). I would still read it but it's not my favorite.
I think this is the weakest in the series but is a book I found worth reading and would probably read it again. I'm not sure entirely why I didn't like it but it could be my own lack of knowledge about this mythology.
SPOILER - STOP HERE IF YOU DON'T WANT A PLOT POINT
I didn't like the battle at the end and I felt like she was the only elemental that was so rescued. The other three I read (Water, Earth, Fire - listed in order of my ranking FYI) had the heroine control her own destiny a bit more. All got help and direction but did a lot of their own stunts, so to speak). I would still read it but it's not my favorite.
September 5, 2018
Mostly good. I was a little confused by the timeline. I thought earlier on she seemed smart because she had been through high school numerous times but then later she had been trapped for decades and only taught English ten years ago then after a while went to high school...
My biggest issue was the seemingly overly detailed fight scenes. I always skim/skip fight scenes, so I am biased, but I had to scroll past so many (ebook) pages that I had to keep reading bits to make sure I wasn't missing plot. I wasn't. If you really love to visualize fight scenes in detail, you'll love this book.
But that aside, I enjoyed the mythology. A solid 3.5 stars.
My biggest issue was the seemingly overly detailed fight scenes. I always skim/skip fight scenes, so I am biased, but I had to scroll past so many (ebook) pages that I had to keep reading bits to make sure I wasn't missing plot. I wasn't. If you really love to visualize fight scenes in detail, you'll love this book.
But that aside, I enjoyed the mythology. A solid 3.5 stars.
April 20, 2019
Wow what a story!
I was very impressed with this story, I think the author did a good job of telling akiko's background and the transition from present to historic was seamless. I thought akiko's character and power was unique, I haven't read of one of those specific creatures before so it was a breath of fresh air. I would have liked to know more about the aether, tamashis, kitsunes and the others but perhaps the author will continue her story in a novella. Kudos to the author for not making the story all about the romance. There were some grammatical errors but all in all a lovely read.
I was very impressed with this story, I think the author did a good job of telling akiko's background and the transition from present to historic was seamless. I thought akiko's character and power was unique, I haven't read of one of those specific creatures before so it was a breath of fresh air. I would have liked to know more about the aether, tamashis, kitsunes and the others but perhaps the author will continue her story in a novella. Kudos to the author for not making the story all about the romance. There were some grammatical errors but all in all a lovely read.
January 5, 2020
This is the fourth book in the series but can be read or listened to as a stand alone. It is the fifth book I have listened to by this author and I have loved them all. This is a very entertaining series. My husband heard me listening to it near the beginning and loved listening to it too. I think he is now excited for the rest of the series. I only wish we could have had a bit more of the boyfriend that was introduced in the beginning. He seemed like an interesting character. I’d love to hear the rest of his story. This book is almost exclusively about Akiko and the people she meets along her journey for freedom.
October 15, 2021
Excellent story
Akiko was not like her best friends. Actually, she wasn't really human in a sense. She is a child of the Aether. Born in Japan many years ago, she was supposed to marry Toshi, but something happened that made her a slave to the person she calls grandfather. She doesn't know his name, she is only there to serve. Akiko is sent back to Japan to retrieve a sword for grandfather. She has no idea what's in store for her. She can change into a bird and fly into the aether, which will deposit her where she needs to be.
Loved this story. It's full of fascinating twists and turns.
Read on my friends
Akiko was not like her best friends. Actually, she wasn't really human in a sense. She is a child of the Aether. Born in Japan many years ago, she was supposed to marry Toshi, but something happened that made her a slave to the person she calls grandfather. She doesn't know his name, she is only there to serve. Akiko is sent back to Japan to retrieve a sword for grandfather. She has no idea what's in store for her. She can change into a bird and fly into the aether, which will deposit her where she needs to be.
Loved this story. It's full of fascinating twists and turns.
Read on my friends
August 21, 2017
Finally, Akiko’s story. She had a different vibe and this book explain who is Akiko, what she is. And it seems the girl also want the answer to this question.
This time the settings are a trip in the past and a quest in a dangerous place. Memories mix with wishes in a tale of love, family, betrayal and repentance. I loved the outcome of the book and cannot wait to see how Akiko will react to her friends being more than meet the eyes.
This was clearly one of my favorite and I recommend it warmly.
This time the settings are a trip in the past and a quest in a dangerous place. Memories mix with wishes in a tale of love, family, betrayal and repentance. I loved the outcome of the book and cannot wait to see how Akiko will react to her friends being more than meet the eyes.
This was clearly one of my favorite and I recommend it warmly.
August 8, 2018
Another book that holds you captive to the end!
What I really like about this series is that even though the girls are all best friends and are all going through something supernatural, each one has a different story that is COMPLETELY different from the others. Like, NO similarities, yet ALL of the books are ahhhmaaazzing!!! Exploring the aether in this novel took me places I’ve never been through all of the thousands of paranormal and fantasy books I’ve read in my life. I absolutely LOVE that!!
What I really like about this series is that even though the girls are all best friends and are all going through something supernatural, each one has a different story that is COMPLETELY different from the others. Like, NO similarities, yet ALL of the books are ahhhmaaazzing!!! Exploring the aether in this novel took me places I’ve never been through all of the thousands of paranormal and fantasy books I’ve read in my life. I absolutely LOVE that!!
September 6, 2018
Akiko has been lying to everyone. They think she's their normal quiet girlfriend that lives with her overbearing grandfather. She keeps the secret until her 'grandfather' sends her on a mission to Japan that would mean her freedom if she succeeds.
Another fabulous story in the Elemental Origins series. Ms. Knorr has a writing style that draws you into the story. She describes the scenes so well you feel like you're there. Action, mystery and a little romance (PG romance) that makes you want to keep on reading. I cannot wait until I can get Born of Air for when all the girl meet again.
Another fabulous story in the Elemental Origins series. Ms. Knorr has a writing style that draws you into the story. She describes the scenes so well you feel like you're there. Action, mystery and a little romance (PG romance) that makes you want to keep on reading. I cannot wait until I can get Born of Air for when all the girl meet again.
October 4, 2018
4 star
The main book is far better writing and better editing than the bonus story at the end. The novel felt solid, with a compelling main character, a solid character arc, and was mostly well-edited and decently written. I had no issues with not having read others in series--definitely stand alone. I did catch one definite error that drove me crazy but was grammar, not story. However, the bonus story at the end needs proper attention and really isn't a bonus to a discerning reader at all.
The main book is far better writing and better editing than the bonus story at the end. The novel felt solid, with a compelling main character, a solid character arc, and was mostly well-edited and decently written. I had no issues with not having read others in series--definitely stand alone. I did catch one definite error that drove me crazy but was grammar, not story. However, the bonus story at the end needs proper attention and really isn't a bonus to a discerning reader at all.
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